Delivered To Your INBOX

Most Popular Dog 2012: Labrador Retriever Nabs Canine Superlative For 22nd Straight Year

Americans are still crazy for Labs.

For the 22nd year in a row, the Labrador retriever was named the most popular dog in the United States, according to the American Kennel Club (AKC).

The AKC released their annual list of the most popular breeds in 2012 on Wednesday.

With its 22nd-straight canine superlative, the Labrador has tied the poodle for most consecutive appearances in the top slot. German shepherds once again commanded the second spot, while golden retrievers and beagles round out the top four.

The poodle, which held the top dog crown throughout the 1980s and 1990s, took the eight spot this year.

“Bigger breeds are making their move,” said AKC spokeswoman Lisa Peterson. “The bulldog has muscled his way into the top five,” she said, displacing the popular Yorkie, which dropped to sixth.

Reuters notes the AKC released its “Most Popular” pooch rankings in advance of next month’s Westminster Kennel Club dog show, the nation’s most prestigious dog competition that culminates with the “best in show” award at Madison Square Garden.

Two new breeds, the Russell terrier and the treeing Walker coonhound, will compete this year.

The AKC’s top 25 list of “Most Popular Dog Breeds” in the United States can be seen below: